Three stories, one pattern: more of your money, less accountability. CalPERS — a $556 billion pension — plays politics, finishes near last in the nation, and won't let retirees see the books. The state budget posts a record revenue boom and still can't balance without raiding $20B in reserves and raising taxes. And gas hits $6 while California keeps banning a cheaper fuel 49 other states allow. Plus the 6-Shooter: one voter and two ballots, Newsom's 100% tax, and a veteran killed over a yard sign.